Listen to the article
Martin Tuason 1974-2025
Martin Tuason, president and CEO of Rock Island Armory and Armscor, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 19. He assumed the helm of both firms in 2012 and continued a family legacy that began more than a century ago when his grandfather, Celso Tuason, transformed a small retail sporting-goods store into Arms Corporation of the Philippines (Armscor) in 1952.
Under Martin’s leadership, Armscor and Rock Island Armory expanded their global reach, established operations across six continents and became one of the top 10 firearm manufacturers in the world. His sharp business acumen was widely recognized, as well as his deep commitment to the values of integrity, respect, and service—principles that have guided the Tuason family for generations.
“Martin devoted his life to family, our company, and the people who make Armscor and Rock Island Armory what they are today,” said Lisa Tuason, Martin’s sister and president/CEO of Rock Island Armory-USA. “He led with a steady voice, a compassionate heart and an unwavering belief in doing things the right way. Martin honored more than a century of our family’s history by protecting the values our father and grandfather passed down—respect, integrity, craftsmanship and service. Martin’s leadership, kindness and commitment touched so many lives.”
Throughout his tenure, Martin modernized company operations, expanded manufacturing capabilities in both the Philippines and the United States, and oversaw automation initiatives that strengthened efficiency and innovation. His leadership helped the company achieve consistent double-digit growth and establish itself as a trusted name worldwide.
The company remains fully operational and committed to serving customers with the same dedication expected. All business functions continue as the company navigates this transition.
“We honor the life and legacy of Martin, whose vision and leadership shaped our company for decades. While we grieve this profound loss, we remain committed to continuing the important work he led. Our team is united, our operations are strong and we will move forward guided by the values Martin instilled in all of us,” Lisa Tuason said.
Memorial arrangements with family and close friends are being held privately. Tuason is survived by his wife, Tammy, children—Nate (Ignacio) Arroyo, Olivia and James—and sister Lisa.
The company asks for privacy for the Tuason family during this time.
Read the full article here
23 Comments
Martin Tuason’s modernization of company operations and expansion of manufacturing capabilities in both the Philippines and the United States were crucial in strengthening the company’s position in the global market.
I’m impressed by the company’s commitment to continuing the important work that Martin Tuason led, and their dedication to serving customers with the same level of excellence.
The company’s statement about honoring Martin Tuason’s life and legacy is a fitting tribute to his contributions and impact on the industry.
Martin Tuason’s commitment to the values of respect, integrity, craftsmanship, and service is a testament to his character and leadership, and his legacy will continue to inspire the company and its employees.
I’m curious to know more about the automation initiatives that Martin Tuason oversaw during his tenure, and how they contributed to the company’s consistent double-digit growth.
Martin Tuason’s leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the company’s success, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide the company in the years to come.
I’m curious to know more about the company’s plans for the future, and how they will continue to innovate and grow in the industry.
I’m excited to see how the company will continue to evolve and grow under the leadership of Lisa Tuason, and how they will build on the foundation laid by Martin Tuason.
The fact that Martin Tuason assumed the helm of both Rock Island Armory and Armscor in 2012 and led the company to become a top 10 firearm manufacturer is a remarkable achievement.
I’m concerned about the impact of Martin Tuason’s passing on the company’s future plans and projects, but it’s reassuring to know that the team is united and committed to moving forward.
Martin Tuason’s passing is a reminder of the importance of family and legacy in business, and the impact that one person can have on an organization.
Martin Tuason’s passing is a significant loss not just for the company, but also for the industry as a whole, and he will be deeply missed by his colleagues and peers.
It’s impressive that Martin Tuason was able to achieve consistent double-digit growth during his tenure, and his leadership will surely be missed.
The fact that Martin Tuason is survived by his wife, Tammy, and children Nate, Olivia, and James, is a reminder that he leaves behind a legacy not just in the company, but also in his family.
The fact that Martin Tuason expanded the company’s operations across six continents is a testament to his sharp business acumen and vision for global reach.
The company’s decision to hold memorial arrangements privately is understandable, given the family’s request for privacy during this difficult time.
It’s heartening to see that the company remains committed to the values of integrity, respect, and service that Martin Tuason instilled in them, and that they will continue to serve customers with the same dedication.
I completely agree, the company’s commitment to these values is what sets them apart from others in the industry.
The company’s decision to move forward guided by the values that Martin Tuason instilled in them is a testament to his lasting impact on the organization.
Martin Tuason’s leadership at Rock Island Armory and Armscor led to the company becoming one of the top 10 firearm manufacturers in the world, which is a significant achievement considering the company’s humble beginnings as a small retail sporting-goods store in the Philippines.
I’m interested in learning more about the history of Armscor, which was founded by Martin Tuason’s grandfather Celso Tuason in 1952, and how it evolved over the years.
You can find more information about the company’s history on their official website, which has a detailed section on their legacy and milestones.
I’m skeptical about how the company will navigate this transition period without Martin Tuason’s leadership, but it’s reassuring to know that his sister Lisa Tuason is at the helm of Rock Island Armory-USA.